Watch out for the real cops! Channing Tatum and Jonah Hill are playfully handcuffed by NYPD at 22 Jump Street screening

And Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum played with the idea of their irreverent characters as they pretended to be handcuffed by NYPD on Wednesday after a screening of their action-comedy in New York.

The pair of actors smiled while two of New York's finest - brandishing equally delighted grins - went through the motions of handcuffing them for the cameras on the red carpet at the afterparty bash held at Lavo.

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An arresting sight: Channing Tatum shared a humorous moment with NYPD as they pretended to handcuff him at 22 Jump Street screening in New York on Wednesday

Wearing a dark grey suit, Channing, 34, held out his hands as an officer simulated the motions of handcuffing him.

But the arresting officer made it clear it was just for fun as he smiled and posed for a snap with the star.

And Jonah, 30, got the same treatment as he got his wrists playfully manacled while wearing a coal grey suit.

His turn: Jonah Hill got the same treatment as Channing by the New York City cops

All in good fun: The 30-year-old funnyman enjoyed a snap with some of New York's finest

Looking sharp: The star is reported to be working on the sequel to Magic Mike

Also there for the fun-filled event was co-star Ice Cube, who opted for a casual style in a pork pie hat and blue jeans.

22 Jump Street is based on a story that Jonah helped draft, proving that Channing isn't the only talented actor who’s dabbled in screenwriting.

Indeed, while the pair continue to promote their latest venture, Channing has been hard at work on the mooted sequel to 2012 smash Magic Mike – which was loosely based on his days as a young, exotic dancer.

Red carpet showdown: While Amber Stevens (L) opted for a demure frock model Teresa Moore showed off her long lean legs in a tasselled dress

Going casual: Ice Cube arrived in a simple getup as he wore a jaunty hat